How Often Should You Renew Your CPR Certification?

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, teacher, coach, or just someone who wants to be prepared for an emergency, having CPR certification is a life-saving skill — but it doesn’t last forever. At Northern Nevada CPR, we help you keep your skills sharp and your certification current.

How Often Should You Renew Your CPR Certification?

Most certifying organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Red Cross, require renewal every 2 years from your initial certification date. This applies to:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare providers

• Heartsaver CPR/AED

• First Aid & CPR combo courses

• Pediatric CPR

After two years, your certification officially expires. Renewal may involve a refresher course or a full recertification, depending on the program and your training provider.

Why Renewing CPR Certification Matters

Skills Fade Quickly: Research shows that CPR techniques and confidence can start to decline 3–6 months after training, especially if they haven’t been used in real emergencies. Renewal reinforces skills and keeps your muscle memory sharp.

Updated Guidelines: CPR and emergency response recommendations are regularly updated based on the latest medical research. A renewal course ensures you’re using the most current, effective life-saving techniques.

Work and Legal Requirements: Many professions — healthcare, childcare, education, and public safety — require active CPR certification. Letting your certification lapse can impact employment eligibility or liability coverage.

How to Renew Your CPR Certification with Northern Nevada CPR

1. Renewal Courses: Shorter than the full course, these are designed for individuals already certified. They include hands-on practice and updated training materials to refresh your skills.

2. Full Recertification: If your CPR certification has expired or you’ve been out of practice, a full course may be required to recertify.

Tips to Stay on Top of Your Certification

• Set a Reminder: Add a calendar alert for 90 days before expiration.

• Keep Documentation Handy: Store both digital and printed copies of your certification card for work or regulatory requirements.

• Schedule Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Northern Nevada CPR classes fill up quickly, especially for healthcare providers and educators.

Conclusion

CPR certification should be renewed every 2 years to ensure you remain confident, capable, and compliant. At Northern Nevada CPR in Reno, we make renewal simple, practical, and hands-on — so you’re ready to save a life when it matters most.

Contact Northern Nevada CPR today to schedule your CPR renewal class and stay prepared.